My Winning Bid: The Flying Eagle Cent That Arrived Last Sunday

Last Sunday, I decided to treat myself to a late birthday gift and won a coin on GreatCollections. It just arrived in the mail—a stunning Flying Eagle cent that’s already the crown jewel of my collection. I used some cash back I’d been saving, and unboxing it felt like uncovering buried treasure.

First Impressions of My New Gem

The moment I held the coin, I couldn’t help but notice its razor-sharp strike and rich, even coloring. This Flying Eagle has surfaces so pristine they’d put many Mint State coins to shame, with luster that practically dances in the light. After decades in this hobby, I’ve handled countless Flying Eagles, but this one grabs you with its exceptional detail and overall presence—it’s definitely a keeper.

Grading Insights and Condition

My coin’s slabbed as a PCGS AU-55 with a CAC sticker, which certainly adds to its value. Honestly, it might be undergraded—I’d put it closer to AU-58 considering how crisp the details are and how little wear it shows. Here’s my thinking:

• I owned a PCGS XF-45 Flying Eagle years ago, and it doesn’t hold a candle to this one’s strike and luster
• Coins with surfaces this nice are few and far between; they often fly under the radar at auction despite their quality

To Crack or Not to Crack: The Great Debate

I’ll admit—I thought about cracking it out to chase an AU-58 grade. But after running the numbers, it just doesn’t add up. Here’s the reality:

• Recent Greysheet and eBay sales show AU-58 non-CAC coins around $455, while my AU-55 CAC sits comfortably at $415
• That potential $40 gain wouldn’t cover the $100+ in grading fees and shipping. Plus, you’d lose the CAC premium and the original holder’s integrity
• Unless you’re confident in a two-grade bump, it’s usually wiser to leave certified coins in their holders for long-term value

So it’s staying put. Why mess with perfection when I can simply enjoy it?

Thoughts for Fellow Collectors

If you’re considering a Flying Eagle cent, upper AU grades offer incredible bang for your buck right now. They’re more accessible than Mint State coins but deliver nearly equal eye appeal. Look for pieces with strong strikes and consistent color—they’re often hidden gems in plain sight. From what I’m seeing, AU-55 to AU-58 examples with CAC approval hit that sweet spot between scarcity and affordability.

Why This Coin Matters

This Flying Eagle isn’t just another addition to my collection—it’s a testament to why I love this hobby. I’m keeping it proudly in its holder as a reminder that the best finds often come from patience and smart bidding. For my fellow collectors, remember: sometimes the real win isn’t in chasing higher grades, but in appreciating what you’ve found. Happy hunting!